Follow On Tours, a newly established travel company, is gearing up to offer bespoke travel packages for England cricket fans. This winter marks the launch of their inaugural tour, which will take fans to South Africa and Bangladesh, before culminating in a trip to Australia for the prestigious 150th Anniversary Test in Melbourne. Tour participants will enjoy exclusive access to Cricket Australia's pre-match function, where they can mingle with former cricket legends and special guests.
The company is a revival of a cricket travel business originally founded by Ian Kerr in 2004. Over its 17-year run, the company became the largest specialist cricket travel agency globally, famously transporting 1,600 fans to South Africa in a single winter season. This impressive feat highlights the significant demand for cricket tourism among passionate supporters.
Reflecting on his journey, Kerr shared a poignant memory: "I was eighteen, on the hill at the SCG in 1999, and Darren Gough took a hat-trick. That morning is the reason I've done everything I've done since." This moment not only inspired Kerr to create a travel business but also solidified Gough's status as a cricketing icon in his eyes.
Now, Gough has taken on a pivotal role within Follow On Tours, becoming a shareholder and ambassador for the company. Kerr expressed his amazement at the turn of events, stating, "Twenty-seven years later he's part of the business I've built. You couldn't write it." This partnership not only brings Gough back into the cricketing fold but also adds a layer of authenticity and appeal to the travel packages offered.
The original cricket travel company faced challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic, which halted international travel and disrupted cricket matches worldwide. After being sold in 2022, the new Follow On Tours aims to revive the spirit of cricket tourism, starting with a return to South Africa this winter, reminiscent of Kerr's first tour as an operator nearly two decades ago.
As cricket fans eagerly await the upcoming tours, Follow On Tours promises to provide an unforgettable experience, blending the thrill of live cricket with the joy of travel. This initiative not only caters to the needs of traveling fans but also celebrates the rich history and culture of cricket, making it a significant addition to the cricketing community.
Leave a Comment